Every car guy should own a Jaguar once in his life, an E-Type if possible. The British have a way of combining luxury, performance, and style in a way that is completely unique in the automotive world, and the E-Type is the ultimate expression of their craft. This bright red 1974 Jaguar XKE Series III open two-seater delivers everything that its looks promise in a fashion that is uniquely British. Showing just 71,309 original miles, this E-Type can justifiably be called a survivor. By 1974, the E-Type had grown, and was more of a grand touring machine than corner-carving sports car, but that’s exactly the right place for it to live. This one has been carefully maintained over the years and repaired as necessary, but never fully disassembled or restored. It’s easy to spot E-Types that have never been rusty or damaged, because their enormous bonnets fit well and the doors open and close easily, just as they do on this roadster. The vintage paint offers a soft vintage gloss that draws attention to the length of the front end and the curvaceous rear fenders, and few cars are better at attracting a crowd than this one. Sure, there are a few signs of use and age, but with the collector car world’s current fascination with originality, it would be a real shame to repaint it. In addition, the chrome is very good, including the grille and bumpers, although the federally mandated rubber overriders don’t do the styling any favors. Supple black hides fill the cabin with smells that others like Lexus have tried to duplicate, but never quite managed to succeed. The buckets are firm and supportive, and show very little wear aside from what the British refer to as “comfort marks” on the driver’s seat cushion. Matching wool carpets have been fitted and their edges are bound for a neatly trimmed look, and the dash pad hasn’t been baked by the sun. Handsome Smiths gauges are a British icon, and they’re all functional, including the tachometer which offers a surprising 6500 RPM redline